Teen Athletes Are Using Smelling Salts—Why It’s Concerning

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s engagement is not the only NFL news gaining attention. Recently, the NFL banned the use of “smelling salts” during games. The league’s memo, citing a 2024 warning from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), stated safety concerns over smelling salts’ ability to mask concussion symptoms.

Smelling salts are often used on the sidelines by tired players who want a quick energy burst or mental jolt, says dual-licensed athletic trainer and physical therapist John Gallucci Jr., MS, ATC, PT, DPT, the CEO of JAG Physical Therapy. He explains that for a player, it’s like hitting a reset button—but one that can come with risks. 

Some players are upset by the decision, admitting they use smelling salts several times per game. But this isn’t just a pro-level issue. The use of smelling salts has also trickled down to youth sports, likely stemming from students seeing elite athletes using them. A Canadian news report describes the growing popularity among teen athletes, and on TikTok, teens post videos experimenting with them for fun. One coach on Reddit even shares how a parent from his high school hockey team marketed them to his players. 

So, what exactly are smelling salts—and why should parents be concerned? Experts break down what families need to know. 

What Are Smelling Salts?

Smelling salts can be traced back to the 13th century, when they were primarily used to revive people who fainted, according to the British Journal of Sports Medicine.

The active ingredient in smelling salts is ammonia. “When inhaled, the ammonia irritates the respiratory tract, which triggers a reflex that increases breathing rate and alertness,” says David Aderholdt, DO, a primary care physician with Inspira Health.

Why Are Smelling Salts Risky?

Although smelling salts are associated with energy jolts and increased alertness, they can also cause throat, nose, and eye irritation, coughing, and even bronchospasms, Dr. Aderholt says. And for those with asthma or other lung conditions, he warns, this irritation can affect breathing, increasing the risk of complications. 

They can also mask signs of concussion, such as confusion or disorientation. “If a player uses smelling salts and then sustains a head injury or loss of consciousness, the stimulating effects of ammonia can temporarily increase alertness,” says Dr. Aderholt. 

When smelling salts cloud a concussion evaluation, it creates what Dr. Gallucci calls the “illusion of recovery” in a moment when rest and removal from play should be a non-negotiable. 

Allowing an athlete with a concussion to re-enter the game can set the stage for second impact syndrome (SIS), which Dr. Gallucci defines as “a second head injury which occurs on top of the first, leading to rapid brain swelling, severe disability, or even death.” Though rare, SIS is a possible and scary consequence that could follow the use of smelling salts.

Another concern: the FDA has not approved smelling salts, meaning that the potency can vary by product or manufacturer. This inconsistency makes the product unpredictable, which is especially concerning for youth athletes, Dr. Aderholdt shares, as there’s no way to know if they are getting a mild or more potent dose.  

What Parents Can Do

Parents should talk to their kids early about smelling salts before teens encounter them on the field or online.

There are safer, more effective ways to improve athletic performance, says Dr. Gallucci. He recommends supporting an athlete’s performance with quality warm-up routines and good hydration and nutrition. He also says breathing techniques, movement drills, and cooling methods can be effective, too. 

Most athletic trainers see the ban on smelling salts as a positive move to protect players, Dr. Gallucci believes, one which “sends a strong message to younger athletes that smelling salts aren’t something to copy or depend on.” 

For families, the lesson is clear: a quick fix can actually put young athletes at risk.